I don't know where I am anymore. Part of me wants to see him succeed because I don't want to keep switching (and paying) coaches every 4-5 years. Time in a program can create things, see Yabo Dabo almost be fired by Clemson following his 2010 campaign.
Unfortunately, I don't see time as being a healing factor for Gus, he consistently makes the same mistakes time and again, without learning from them. I worry Stidham might be lightning in a bottle which is great short term, but long term where does it leave the state of our program?
The one thing I am sure of is I don't want Jacobs hiring our next football coach.
This is where I am pretty much, with more of the emphasis on your first paragraph, while also acknowledging the second.
I know Jacobs is a lightning rod for criticism, and as with most things, I tend to have a little more nuanced opinion of him than most. But the one thing he has done that I have zero excuses for is him throwing money at Gus for mediocrity. Extending and upping his buyout has made zero sense. If not for that, firing Gus tomorrow might make some sense. As it stands, between that and the "who's available that will be a guaranteed upgrade" factor, it really doesn't in my opinion.
This is as good a place as any to post this food for thought though:
https://twitter.com/VanAllenPlexico/status/818797741543460864@VanAllenPlexico
Ala supposedly greatest dynasty ever; Auburn coach was on hot seat. Yet bama seniors played in & won just 1 more NC game than AU seniors.
https://twitter.com/TheAuburner/status/818695995756257280â€@TheAuburner
Undefeated Seasons Update:
Terry Bowden: 1
Gene Chizik: 1
Tommy Tuberville: 1
Nick Saban: 1